Picture Miami in 2004 – the clubs are pulsing, the architecture radiates a sleek modernity, and the interiors are soaked in luxurious excess. Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez’s Star Island home sits prominently on the shoreline, where an aerial photograph of J.Lo lounging in her pool captures a perfect moment in time.
While two decades have passed since that image was captured, the pool within Jennifer’s Mediterranean garden remains just as fashionable as it was then.
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(Image credit: John Roca/NY Daily News Archive via Getty Images)
Shop the Mediterranean-Inspired Pool Area Edit
Spanish Colonial Revival Style
Storied Home Terracotta Urn Jar
Nothing says Spanish Revival or Mediterranean style like an oversized urn. This statement piece deserves a place on any patio, where it looks stunning in the summer light. It brings a hint of European charm and helps you achieve an effortlessly curated look with ease.
Obsessively-designed
Premium Beach Umbrella by Business & Pleasure Co.
A stylish, multitasking beach umbrella built for every sunny-day plan. Ideal for the beach, backyard, or terrace, it features a UV-coated canopy and marine-grade hardware for lasting durability, while playful fringe adds a relaxed, sun-soaked touch.
Mediterranean Essential
Arbequina Live Olive Tree
The perfect plant for your pool area? An olive tree. Embrace the beauty of ancient civilizations as you bring the allure of olive groves to your own outdoor space, whether by the pool or on your patio. No matter the size, you can create an escapist retreat for the summer ahead.
Perfect accent piece
2-Tier Earth Solar Outdoor Tiered Water Fountain
This outdoor solar-powered birdbath fountain is ideal for any garden or landscaped space, with no need for an electrical outlet. It runs on solar power with battery backup, ensuring continuous operation, and is crafted from durable resin and fiberglass for long-lasting performance.
Geometric twist
Sorrento Outdoor Chaise Lounge
A great pool lounger is the perfect place to unwind after practicing your best diving board jumps. This textured design stands out with its sculptural shape and stylish finish.
Perfect for the Pool Area
Lanata Outdoor Accent Chair
Nothing complements a retro pool area quite like green stripes. Fresh, playful, and full of seasonal energy, the pattern feels perfectly at home in warm-weather settings. As an accent chair, it can transform even the quietest patio corner into a striking statement of style.
Indeed, creating a Mediterranean garden has only grown in popularity since it was first seen at the singer’s residence. Google data reveals a 190% surge in searches for ‘Mediterranean garden’ during the summer months.
Grace Thornton, a landscape design expert at Marshalls Gardens, explains the appeal: ‘We’ve all wanted to bottle that feeling you get from relaxing outside on a warm summer’s evening whilst abroad. Taking that look and feel and making it work for your garden is a great way to create your own local escape.’ Replicating this garden trend around a pool is remarkably straightforward for those inspired by the look.
‘Think about engaging all the senses,’ suggests Jodi Peterman of Elizabeth Erin Designs. ‘Build an aromatic herb garden right next to your pool, filled with Mediterranean staples like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Not only will it give you fresh ingredients for cooking or cocktails, but it also brings the scents of the Mediterranean to your poolside.’
She also advises adding character to your pool through vibrant color, much like J.Lo. Jodi notes: ‘Instead of traditional terracotta, go for oversized, colorful ceramics that reflect the bright blues and yellows of Mediterranean coastal towns. Use them for plants, water features, or even as standalone art pieces.’ Crafting a stylish space for entertaining with the best fire pit and quality outdoor furniture further transforms a pool area into a serene retreat.
Jodi adds: ‘Add contrast to your watery oasis with stone fire bowls. The flickering flames create a luxurious balance of the elements – fire and water – evoking those warm, evening vibes of Mediterranean beachfront lounges. If you’re still in the construction phase, it’s smart to plan by running gas lines to where your fire bowl(s) will be. This not only makes them easier to use but also adds a touch of sophistication and convenience to your outdoor setup.’
As trends shift throughout 2026, many styles will fade, but the elegance of a Mediterranean-style pool remains a permanent fixture of high design.
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